Politics

Represent! is your eye on how well government serves citizens and the public interest in Southern California. KPCC's politics and government team posts frequently on transparency, civic engagement, reform efforts and accountability. We invite your comments and suggestions — follow us on Twitter at the links below.

Today is Thursday, July 25, and here is what's happening in Southern California politics:

Headlines

The Jewish Journal talks to newly elected Controller Ron Galperin about his plans to use data and technology in elected office. "There is an incredible opportunity … we are seeing this in other local governments as well as in the private sector. How do you take that data and learn from it?” Galperin says.

California Forward looks at the incredibly low turnout in the Los Angeles City Council's special election. "People don’t vote because they did not know there was even an election – very likely the case with the Special Election for District 6," says Common Cause's Kathay Feng.

Speaking of the special election, Nury Martinez was appointed the caretaker of the district until her victory is certified and she can be sworn into office, according to KPCC.

MetroChiefArt Leahy spent the week in Washington, DC meeting with politicians and transportation officials, reports KPCC. "We’re going to come back here and get as much money as we can," he says of federal transit dollars. Also, Mayor Eric Garcetti will attend his first Metro board meeting at 9 a.m.

KPCC looks at the financial ties between the Central Basin Municipal Water District and political consultant Tom Calderon. "Most people give contributions, not because it makes them feel warm and fuzzy inside, but because they think there is some way that they can benefit from this candidate being in public office," says Loyola Law Professor Jessica Levinson.

L.A. City Councilman Mike Bonin wants to overturn a city policy that tickets cars parked at broken meters, according to the Daily News. "We want people to think that government is on their side and not on their backs," Bonin says.